mineral

Labradorite

Labradorite, a plagioclase feldspar in the albite–anorthite series, approximately (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray, polished specimen showing blue-green and orange labradorescence; vitreous luster, triclinic crystals, two cleavage directions, Mohs hardness 6–6.5, and specific gravity about 2.7. The iridescent flash is visible as light reflects from internal layers.

Identified October 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as calcium-rich plagioclase in cooling mafic igneous rocks, especially gabbro and anorthosite; these rocks are Precambrian in many well-known deposits. The image alone does not establish the specimen’s locality or age.

Uses & applications

Polished labradorite is used for jewelry, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; plagioclase is also a major rock-forming mineral.

Geological facts

Its shifting color effect is called labradorescence, produced by light interference within fine internal compositional layers.

Field identification & locations

Rotate the stone under a point light to reveal broad, shifting flashes; this polished piece is consistent with labradorite, though identification from an image is not definitive. Notable sources include Labrador, Canada, Madagascar, Finland, and Norway.